The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) experiments conducted for this research are a continuation of previous research at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey, California. These devices use relative motion to excite an effect like static electricity to generate electrical power. This research explores the design space around a TENG in which polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) balls constrained to three-dimensional (3D) printed tunnels with copper electrodes. By improving upon these devices, ocean-based systems can improve their mission duration or range using the actuating power of waves. Twelve different tunnel designs with varying numbers and sizes of electrodes were 3D printed and tested with varying numbers and sizes of PTFE balls. The servo-actuated device output was measured with multimeters connected to a digital data acquisition system. A design of experiments approach evaluated the design space with fewer samples, and precision evaluation runs were conducted. The experiment showed a statistically significant relationship between the power generated and two factors: PTFE ball size and number of electrodes. However, the device showed repeatability issues and that non-considered inputs are significantly affecting the device output. This research points to a lack of understanding in the complex interactions between multiple charge-carrying PTFE balls in a multi-electrode tunnel excited by a sinusoidal wave.Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.Lieutenant Commander, United States Nav
